PurplePython, This community is not about trying to shut every kid down who comes here wanting to buy a snake.
Telling them all the reasons why they SHOULDN'T have a snake isn't really the nicest way to encourage this person to become a responsible adult.
Owning a pet is a GREAT way to learn responsibility. Taking care of another life is a big commitment. The OP has been wanting to get a ball python for nearly a year so this isn't an impulse decision.
In my opinion, if the OP can care for a ball python and be able to pay for its expenses, then why shouldn't he be able to own one?
I know a lot of mature youngsters on this site who are more than capable of taking care of ball pythons
Lets give him the benefit of the doubt before we just shoot him down.